BONG GO AUTHORS AND CO-SPONSORS BILL FOR FREE LEGAL ASSISTANCE TO UNIFORMED PERSONNEL; EMPHASIZES FULL SUPPORT FOR THE MILITARY

On Tuesday, September 10, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the country’s uniformed personnel in his co-sponsorship speech for Senate Bill No. 2814, also known as the Free Legal Assistance for Military and Uniformed Personnel Act. This proposed legislation which he also authored, seeks to provide free legal aid to uniformed personnel facing legal challenges stemming from their official duties, ensuring they receive the legal protection they deserve.

As Vice Chairperson of the Senate Committee on National Defense, Go emphasized the importance of standing by those who protect the nation, recalling the strides made during the Duterte administration.

“I have always been supportive of our uniformed personnel even before I became a Senator,” Go remarked, referencing the significant salary increases for uniformed personnel under former President Rodrigo Duterte’s leadership.

“This support has been evident when former president Duterte fulfilled his campaign promise to increase the salaries of our uniformed personnel,” he added.

The senator pointed out the sacrifices made by uniformed personnel, who often risk their lives to safeguard the nation. “Often, our uniformed personnel are placed in dangerous situations that jeopardize their life and limb, putting the future of their family and loved ones on the line to secure peace and order in our country and defend our people.”

Go highlighted the crucial role uniformed personnel play in maintaining national security, often facing dangerous situations in the fight against criminal syndicates and terrorist groups. “Ang ating uniformed personnel ang laging nasa frontline sa kampanya ng pamahalaan laban sa banta ng mga kriminal, lalo na ang mga drug syndicates at mga terorista,” he said, recognizing their bravery in defending the nation.

However, Go pointed out that despite their valor, many uniformed personnel face legal challenges while performing their duties. “It is often overlooked how those who defend our safety are also in need of defenders for their rights,” he explained.

He shared his concern over instances where soldiers and police officers are unfairly targeted, particularly when they find themselves entangled with influential individuals.

“Paminsan-minsan, sa nais lamang nilang gampanan ang kanilang tungkulin, sila pa ang iniipit at nakakasuhan kapag may nakakabanggang mga mayayaman at makapangyarihang mga tao,” Go explained.

Go then reiterated the importance of providing proper legal defense for uniformed personnel, particularly given their limited salaries and the often lengthy legal battles they face.

“Siguraduhin po natin na may pondo ang pulis at sundalo para mabigyan sila ng adequate na legal defense. Alam naman po natin na kulang ang sweldo nila para dyan, napakarami pong fees na binabayaran pag nag hire ng abogado,” Go stressed.

He pointed out that legal battles can be financially draining, often dragging on for years. “Where costs of litigation could, at times, prove to be too burdensome for the meager livelihood earned by our soldiers and police officers, the State must do its part to ensure that those tasked with the duty to serve and protect, are adequately served and protected.”

Go underscored its significance: “It is for this very reason that I ask your support for this measure that would provide free legal assistance to all uniformed personnel, giving them necessary support when they face charges from incidents related to their official duties. Uulitin ko, basta in line of duty.”

The proposed legislation is seen as a vital step towards ensuring that the country’s uniformed personnel receive the legal protection they deserve while carrying out their duties. By addressing the financial burden of legal battles, the bill aims to empower soldiers, police officers, and other uniformed personnel to perform their duties without fear of legal repercussions.

The senator concluded his speech by thanking the Senate leadership and his colleagues for considering the importance of the measure and urged them to pass it swiftly for the benefit of the nation’s defenders.

Go has consistently championed the welfare and modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). Notably, during the Duterte administration, Go played a crucial role in increasing the salaries of military and other uniformed personnel, which he described as a way to honor their dedication to the country.

The senator has also actively opposed proposals that would adversely affect the pensions entitled to active and retired military personnel. He also opposes proposals that would require them to contribute to their pension funds.

Go’s advocacy extends beyond the military to include the modernization of the Philippine Coast Guard through his filed SBN 2112, which seeks to modernize its assets and capabilities.